Date: 1911

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Contained records

Telegram from George V (Sandringham) to [WSC] thanking him for his telegram reporting events in Stepney [the "Siege of Sidney Street"]. He expresses approval of WSC's action and regret that Sergeant Leeson was injured. Manuscript.

Printed inquest report on the bodies of two unknown men found at 100, Sidney Street, Mile End [London] including depositions made by WSC, local residents, members of the Metropolitan Police, and the London Fire Brigade.

Draft letter from WSC (Home Office) to the Coroner for the County of London concerning his actions at the "Siege of Sidney Street". His statement includes: his authorisation of the dispatch of 20 infantry soldiers to Sidney Street; decision to go to the scene; and initial confirmation of orders given to the Fire Brigade not to attempt to put out the fire until firing had stopped. Typescript with manuscript alterations by WSC. See CHAR 12/11/6-7.

Draft letter from WSC (Home Office) to the Coroner for the County of London concerning his actions at the "Siege of Sidney Street". His statement includes: his authorisation of the dispatch of 20 infantry soldiers to Sidney Street; decision to go to the scene; and initial confirmation of orders given to the Fire Brigade not to attempt to put out the fire until firing had stopped. Typescript with manuscript alterations by WSC, annotated "not sent". See CHAR 12/11/4-5.

Letter from Sydney Holland [later 2nd Lord Knutsford] (Kneesworth Hall, Royston, Hertfordshire) to WSC offering to corroborate WSC's letter to the Times as he was witness to WSC's actions [during the "Siege of Sidney Street"]. Signed manuscript.

Letter from Sydney Holland [later 2nd Lord Knutsford] (Kneesworth Hall, Royston, Hertfordshire) to WSC including a newspaper cutting from the Times of a letter from George Beer (Kandersteg, Heather Road, Grove Park, Kent) which suggests that the London County Council should alter the coroners' districts in the light of the inquest [into Sidney Street]. Holland agrees with this proposal, and suggests that the police should be armed with pistols or short guns. Signed manuscript.